Norway is known for producing oil from its many oil rigs in the sea, and for being a source of natural gas, but environmental concerns are changing things, and up to 150 wind power stations awaiting approval or already authorized. From a report by Nina Larson for AFP:
"As Norway prepares for a future after oil, the gale-force potential of harvesting wind power off its long coastline has become an increasingly attractive proposition… "Wind-mapping shows that … Norway is among the (world's) most ideal locations for wind power, both on the coast and offshore," said Norwegian Deputy Petroleum and Energy Minister Liv Monica Stubholdt."
It is certainly noteworthy that a country known for exports of oil and gas is working on a switch to wind power and sustainable energy. This isn't because of a dependence on foreign oil- Norwegian oil is "home grown."
Original text © James K. Bashkin, 2008
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Comments: 15
I know it's not totally perfect, but I think wind power is a viable alternative for the future.
Debra, you are certainly correct, but while not surprising to the well-informed, I think this is noteworthy because most of the other countries that are implementing alternative energy are not major producers of their own natural gas and/or oil (one exception being the UK, which produces oil from the North Sea). So, this is not being driven by a concern about foreign oil, but is still being done. Yes, Norway promotes a green lifestyle, but that was somewhat disputable given their previous oil and gas policies. Now they are really making a strong economic and environmental statement, and one that I'm delighted to see. Thanks for the knowledgeable feedback!
My son and daughter own a 60 acre farm not far from here. It is very windy there. My son and I often talk about making it a wind farm. As someone who has always been drawn to water wheels, I would like to see him put one in over the natural spring, to perhaps generate some power that way too. He and several friends are going down soon to take a look at the spring house, and dig it out some. I always wonder how much water flow he could get out of it if it had room to flow and move.
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Thanks t b. and Diane for your thoughtful feedback. Water wheels have certainly done a lot of important work over the years. I think I just saw something about figuring out micro-hydroelectric setups and if they are practical, though I didn't read the details yet so I'm not sure if it is "for real" (unfortunately, there is a lot of nonsense along with the good stuff on the web). I'll let you know if it looks good, Diane. In any event, it sounds like the farm you refer to may have both solar and wind power potential. Best wishes!
I was born in Norway, and will most likely go back. At this rate, I may go back for good. the US(where I live now) obviously has plenty of wind and plenty of open space...and yet Norway is still first to try this...
Just putting out another option...
Ed, thanks for your valuable contribution to the discussion!
One frustrating thing is that we have to get the politicians to implement sweeping policy changes that would give appropriate tax relief to wind, solar, geothermal, and hydroelectric power, etc. Maybe if we give them a choice between that or wearing a windmill to harness their vocal energy... :)